Popular Eagles stadium announcer out after 29 years

Dan Baker has been the stadium voice of the Philadelphia Eagles for 29 years. The team announced Wednesday that he won't return for a 30th.

The Eagles "have decided to make a change in the role" and informed Baker of the decision last week, according to a statement.

"Dan is the ultimate professional and even though he was disappointed with the direction we are heading, he was accepting of our decision to make the change," team president Don Smolenski said in a statement.. "We are very appreciative of his dedication and service. He never missed a single game."

The Eagles said they will begin searching for a new PA announcer. In addition, they said Sundays at Lincoln Financial Field are changing, with Smolenski calling it a "true multi-media experience."

"As the game day experience continues to evolve with expanded audio and visual enhancements, the game-telling experience is no longer the responsibility of a single person," the release said.

The Eagles said they will recognize Baker at the season-opener Sept. 7 against Jacksonville. Baker also has been the public-address announcer for the Philadelphia Phillies since 1972.

"I want to thank Mr. [Jeffrey] Lurie, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the fans for the privilege of announcing 29 great years of Eagles football," Baker said in a statement. "It has truly been an honor."